The concept of studying abroad might seem intimidating and time consuming, not to mention all the money it takes to book a plane ticket to and from the location you are traveling to, but also the tuition and international expenses are draining. But in hindsight, it’s an amazing experience worth the expense, take it from someone who studied abroad.
During my winter break this year I went to study abroad through my school’s own faculty-led study abroad program. Where did I go? Ireland! From start to finish the experience was worth every single penny and all the time I spent scurrying from campus office to fill out paperwork. In my time in Ireland I got to experience traditional Irish cuisine such as Beef and Guinness stew, blood pudding, white pudding, sausages, and much more. I embarked on excursions to Dunmore Head, the Cliffs of Moher, and I even got to go to another country in the process (Northern Ireland). I learned so much and experienced Irish culture in the forms of pub-hopping, learning the dance known as the “Seige of Ennis”, and even partook in the fasted land sport named Hurling. I don’t want to forget to mention all the amazing people I met along the way. On the return flight back home I can’t even explain how bittersweet it was separating after being together for three weeks. Study abroad was a great experience! The pro’s really outweigh the con’s here!
A lot of students have high hopes to study abroad but often feel shut down when they look at the expenses involved, or they’re worried it won’t cover a necessary course needed to be taken, or even assessing the value of a study abroad course. And all this is understandable, but study abroad is definitely worth it. There are always scholarships and grants that you can apply for to help fund your study abroad trip, a lot of times people forget about this! Lastly, concerning the value and necessity, it’s always good to have experience abroad because it makes you a well-rounded student. Schools you apply for after you complete your degree love to see this on your applications.
I can honestly say studying abroad had been one of the most fun and adventurous experiences I’ve had in my life. If I could, I would do it again!